Description
Fire Cider is a homemade tonic made with apple cider vinegar and a blend of immune-boosting ingredients like garlic, ginger, and jalapeños. This tangy and spicy remedy enhances health, aids digestion, and adds a flavorful kick to meals. Perfect for daily use or as a zesty addition to dressings and soups.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 quart apple cider vinegar
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 10 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon grated ginger
- 1 tablespoon grated horseradish (optional)
- 1–2 jalapeño peppers, chopped (seeds removed for less heat)
- 1 lemon, juiced and zested
- 1 tablespoon turmeric powder
- 1 tablespoon black peppercorns
- 1–2 tablespoons raw honey (to taste)
- Filtered water (if needed)
Instructions
- Gather Your Ingredients: Start by collecting all the ingredients listed above. Its always a good idea to have everything on hand before you start cooking.
- Chop and Mince: Chop the onion into small pieces, mince the garlic cloves finely, and grate the ginger and horseradish (if using). Chop the jalapeños into small pieces, removing the seeds for a milder flavor.
- Zest and Juice the Lemon: Zest the lemon carefully to avoid the bitter white pith, then juice it, ensuring to catch any seeds.
- Combine in a Jar: In a large glass jar, add the chopped onion, minced garlic, grated ginger, grated horseradish, chopped jalapeños, lemon zest, lemon juice, turmeric powder, and black peppercorns.
- Pour in the Vinegar: Carefully pour the apple cider vinegar over the mixture, ensuring all ingredients are submerged. Add filtered water if necessary.
- Seal the Jar: Tightly seal the jar with a lid. If using a metal lid, place parchment paper between the lid and jar to prevent a reaction with the vinegar.
- Let It Sit: Place the jar in a cool, dark place for 2 to 4 weeks, shaking it every few days to mix the ingredients.
- Check the Flavor: After about two weeks, start tasting the mixture. Let it infuse longer for a stronger flavor if desired.
- Strain the Mixture: Once satisfied with the flavor, strain the mixture using a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth, pressing down on the solids to extract as much liquid as possible.
- Sweeten to Taste: Pour the strained liquid back into a clean jar and add raw honey to taste, starting with one tablespoon. Mix well and adjust sweetness as needed.
- Store Properly: Transfer the finished fire cider into a clean glass bottle or jar with a tight-fitting lid. Store in the refrigerator or a cool, dark place for several months.
- How to Use Fire Cider: Take 1-2 tablespoons daily as a tonic, mix into salad dressings, marinades, or add to soups and stews. It can also be mixed with warm water and honey for a soothing drink.
Notes
- Fire cider is known for its immune-boosting properties, aiding digestion, and having anti-inflammatory effects.
- Adjust the heat level by varying the amount of jalapeño used or omitting it altogether.
- The infusion time can be adjusted based on personal taste preferences.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: No cooking required